The vehicle now has 40-inch wheels and a completely new suspension.
Because the pickup is still so new, the Jeep Gladiator remains a rare sight. The pickup’s mechanical similarities to the Wrangler means that aftermarket companies have access to a large supply of heavy-duty parts that can be used to modify the truck so it is more capable of off-roading. This video shows the extreme possibilities of tuning this truck.
You can see the Jeep Gladiator at work:
This Gladiator is a machine that the Gladiators team has given everything it needs to off-road. The suspension has been redesigned to include coilovers and bypass shocks that can absorb some of the big bumps. The standard electric motor is replaced by a mechanical power steering pump. It’s much larger than the original. Dana 60 axles equipped with electric lockers will be able drive on all terrain. Except for a new driveshaft, the powertrain is unchanged.
These modifications allow you to fit 40-inch Nitto offroad tires over a set bronze-colored wheels with beadslocks. Despite all the modifications, the rubber is not quite able to fit in the front so the builders must trim some of the bodywork.
The modifications to the body include rock sliders and a front-mounted Warn Winch. A shortened rear bumper completes the project. Racks are now located above the cargo bed and roof. This machine will become a mean overlander when it gets a tent.
Check out these videos if you are a Gladiator customer or owner and want to see how much work it takes. These videos show the hard work required to replace a suspension and an axle.